News

The staff and Board members of the Graves’ Disease & Thyroid Foundation (GDATF) would like to extend our condolences to the family and friends of former first lady Barbara Bush, who passed away yesterday at age 92. Mrs. Bush was diagnosed with Graves' disease in 1989, but never let the condition define her or limit her potential. Her tireless advocacy for literacy and other charitable causes – especially after her diagnosis – is an inspiration to Graves’ patients everywhere. Mrs. Bush will always be remembered for her kindness. President and Mrs. Bush once sent a typewritten letter of support to GDATF founder Nancy Hord Patterson, and Mrs. Bush wrote a letter to attendees of the GDATF's first patient conference.​​ Dr. Larry Wood, founder and past president of the Thyroid Foundation of America (TFA) and a former GDATF Board member, reacalls that Mrs. Bush's appearance at a TFA fundraiser made a significant impact on the organization's success, and he is grateful for her support.